BEAUTY TIPS

You want a flat stomach to flaunt that sexy dress at your boyfriend's birthday party. So you hit the gym and do 100 crunches every day.

Did you know eating the right foods can make this struggle easier? Dr Sonal Sanghvi, a nutritionist, says it's all about the nutrients - "Fibre reduces bloating, antioxidants boost the effectiveness of exercises and proteins maintain a healthy metabolism." Combat calories with these foods:

Nutritious almonds

"Almonds have the ability to block calories. The energy they give your body is used up immediately without being converted to fat," says Dr Sanghvi.

They are rich in Vitamin E, an antioxidant which reduces stretch marks on your stomach. The magnesium in almonds helps your body build and maintain muscle tissue. Eat four almonds every day, ideally before exercise.

Egg(ing) on

Eggs are the perfect source for proteins. They are very filling which means you are less likely to overeat. "Breakfast is the best time for eggs. You will feel less hungry through the day and the proteins and fats in eggs give you the energy to kick start your day," says Dr Sanghvi. Avoid frying your eggs. Boiled eggs are a healthier option.

Soy power

These are a great source of fiber, protein and antioxidants. You can also have soy in the form of rice, rotis or milk. Soy gives you energy to keep going all day.

Apple mantra

The fibre in apples makes them great for snacking on. The water content in this fruit makes it very filling. "Apples contain compounds that fight cancer, reduce cholesterol damage and keep your lungs healthy," says Dr Sanghvi.

Apples give you negative calories, which means digesting the fruit burns more calories than it gives you.

Yummy yoghurt

Yoghurt has pro-biotic bacteria that help your body digest food. "It reduces bloating, gas and constipation, making your stomach flat and keeping stomach-related problems away," says Dr Sanghvi. Make sure you have low-fat yoghurt and don't add sugar to it. You will simply be adding calories.

According to Dr Sanghvi, eating the right food alone will not give you a flat stomach. You also need to exercise and control your fat intake.